Characterization of Textile Wastewater: Its Environmental Impact and Biotreatability

A. Žgajnar Gotvajn and J. Zagorc-Končan

Abstract
A reliable wastewater characterization is an integral part of treatment and management strategies for industrial effluents. A complex approach, based on stabilization studies was proposed, to determine biological treatability of textile wastewaters and possible persistent toxicity. Whole effluent toxicity was determined using three different toxicity tests. Next step was the determination of whole effluent ready biodegradability to assess its biodegradability in common environmental conditions. Determination of hazardous impact and treatability of the wastewater was accomplished with stabilization studies to characterize wastewater in terms of persistent and degradable toxicity. At the same time characteristics and treatment efficiency of activated sludge was also assessed in open respirometer, where we measured oxygen uptake rate (mgO2 g vss –1 day–1). Textile wastewater expressed good biodegradability (more than 76 %), however some residual persistent toxicity has been reported. It was pointed out, that its environmental impact depends upon physico-chemical conditions in the receiving environment. On the other hand, toxicity measurements and respirometric analysis confirmed adaptation of activated sludge to selected wastewater. Presented complex approach confirmed biological treatment potential of the textile wastewater.

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Keywords
Biodegradability, biological treatment, stabilization study, textile wastewater, toxicity